Mastering Interviews: Why Your Elevator Pitch Matters

Interviews are an essential part of the collegiate dance team recruitment process. While many dancers focus solely on their skills on the floor, it’s important to remember that auditions are not just about how well you can dance. Coaches often ask, “tell me about yourself,” giving you an opportunity to make a lasting first impression. Preparing a strong elevator pitch—a concise 30-second summary of your unique qualities, experiences, and goals—can set the tone for a successful interview.

Why Interviews Are Just as Important as Dancing

Think about this: only 10% of your season is spent in competitions. The other 90% involves game days, community appearances, and interactions with fans. These non-competitive aspects of the role require exceptional interpersonal skills. An interview allows you to showcase these skills and demonstrate that you’re not only a talented dancer but also an engaging and approachable team representative. To stand out, your interview responses should feel authentic, genuine, and conversational.

The Power of an Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief 30 second, impactful introduction that highlights your journey, strengths, and aspirations. For a college dance team interview, this pitch should focus on your dance experience, what makes you a strong team player, and why you’re excited about joining the program. A well-crafted elevator pitch helps you answer the “tell me about yourself” question confidently and effectively.

Key Components of an Elevator Pitch

1. Introduction: Share your name, background, and how long you’ve been dancing.

2. Strengths: Highlight specific skills or qualities that make you stand out, such as teamwork, versatility, or dedication.

3. Passion & Goals: Discuss why you’re passionate about dance and your aspirations for being part of the team.

4. Memorable Close: End with a unique fact or statement that leaves a lasting impression.
   

For example: "Hi, I’m Taylor, and I’ve been dancing for 12 years at Summit Dance Academy, specializing in jazz and contemporary. I thrive in team environments and love the challenge of pushing my skills to new levels. I’m excited about joining University Dance Team because I admire how they emphasize both competition and community involvement. I grew up attending football games and never watched the actual game but only the dance team, dreaming I would one day be in that uniform too."

Practice Your Elevator Pitch Solo

This approach ensures you’re prepared while keeping things conversational and natural. Use the following bullet points to organize your thoughts:

• Introduction:

  • Your name

  • Years of dance experience

  • Where you’ve trained or danced

• Strengths:

  • Two or three key skills or qualities (e.g., teamwork, versatility, coachable)

• Passion & Goals:

  • Why you’re passionate about dance

  • Why you want to join this specific team

• Memorable Close:

  • A fun or unique fact about yourself or

  • Special connection you have to the University or program 
    
    

Once you’ve drafted your bullet points, practice delivering your pitch aloud. Aim to sound conversational rather than rehearsed.

Tips for Practicing

• Practice in front of a mirror to refine your tone and body language.

• Use your hands when speaking - don’t be stiff and closed off

• Record yourself to evaluate pacing and enthusiasm- smile and be personable

• Share your pitch with a friend, parent, or coach for constructive feedback.

• Adjust as needed to keep it under 30 seconds while staying authentic.
  
  

This solo exercise builds confidence and allows you to focus on crafting a pitch that feels true to who you are. By practicing in a low-pressure environment, you’ll be more prepared to deliver your pitch naturally during an interview.

Interviews are your chance to show coaches who you are beyond the dancer. A strong elevator pitch helps you navigate the “tell me about yourself” question with ease and sets the foundation for a genuine and engaging conversation. By preparing in advance and practicing, you’ll be ready to impress in any interview setting. Remember, your interpersonal skills are just as important as your technical skills when it comes to making the team.